Vanuatu

Vanuatu offers some of the most diverse and adventurous travel experiences in the Pacific. The main island of Efate is home to the capital, Port Vila, and offers beautiful beaches and blue lagoons. However, the real adventure lies on the outer islands. On the island of Tanna, you can stand on the crater's edge of Mount Yasur, one of the world's most accessible active volcanoes, and watch it spew molten lava into the night sky. On Espiritu Santo, you can dive the world's largest accessible shipwreck, the SS President Coolidge, and swim in mesmerizingly blue freshwater holes.

The culture of Vanuatu, known as 'kastom,' is incredibly strong and diverse, with over 100 distinct languages spoken. On Pentecost Island, you can witness the original bungee jumping, the 'Naghol' (land diving), a traditional ceremony where men jump from tall wooden towers with vines tied to their ankles. For those seeking raw nature and authentic cultural encounters, Vanuatu is an adventurer's paradise.

Reasons to Visit

• Active Volcanoes: Stand on the rim of the thrilling Mount Yasur on Tanna island and watch its spectacular fiery eruptions.
• World-Class Wreck Diving: Dive the massive SS President Coolidge, a WWII shipwreck off the coast of Espiritu Santo.
• Unique Cultural Traditions: Witness ancient customs like the 'Naghol' (land diving) ceremony on Pentecost Island.
• Pristine Nature: Explore lush jungles, swim in stunning blue holes, and relax on undeveloped beaches.

Things to Avoid

• Ignoring 'Kastom':'Kastom' (custom) is the traditional culture and is very important. Always be respectful, dress modestly in villages, and ask permission before entering certain areas.
• Being Unprepared for Basic Infrastructure: Outside of Port Vila and Luganville, infrastructure is very basic. Be prepared for simple accommodation and limited electricity.
• Drinking Tap Water: It is not recommended to drink the tap water. Stick to bottled or purified water.
• Relying on Credit Cards: Vanuatu is a cash-based economy. Bring enough Vanuatu Vatu, especially when traveling to the outer islands.

Local Transportation Tips

Domestic flights are the main way to travel between the different islands of the archipelago. On the main islands, privately-owned minivans serve as the local buses and can be hailed from the side of the road. Taxis are available in the main towns. A 4x4 is often necessary for exploring the rough roads of the outer islands.

Travel Etiquette

• Ask for Permission: Always ask for permission before taking photos of people or entering a village or property. A small gift may be expected.
• Modest Dress: When visiting villages or away from the beach, it is important for both men and women to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees.
• Respect for Chiefs: Village chiefs hold a position of high authority. If you meet a chief, behave with respect.
• Greetings: A friendly greeting in Bislama, "Halo," is always appreciated.

Did You Know?

The adventure sport of bungee jumping was inspired by the 'Naghol' (land diving) ceremony of Pentecost Island in Vanuatu, where men jump from high towers with vines tied to their feet as a harvest ritual.

Cool Vanuatu Stats

• Linguistic Density: Vanuatu has one of the highest linguistic densities in the world, with over 100 indigenous languages spoken for a population of around 300,000.
• Active Volcano: Mount Yasur on Tanna is often called the world's most accessible active volcano, having been in continuous Strombolian eruption for over 800 years.
• Happy Planet Index: Vanuatu has previously been ranked number one in the world on the Happy Planet Index, which measures sustainable wellbeing.

Recommended Age Group

Vanuatu is most suitable for adventurous Adults and Teens who are physically fit and comfortable with rugged travel and basic infrastructure.

• Babies (0-2 years): Not recommended. The travel is difficult, and the environment is not suitable for infants.
• Kids (3-12 years): Not recommended. The primary attractions are adventure-based and culturally complex, making it unsuitable for most young children.
• Teens (13-19 years): Highly Recommended for adventurous, mature teens. The volcano, diving, and unique culture offer an incredible adventure.
• Adults (20-64 years): Highly Recommended. For adults seeking a true adventure destination with unparalleled cultural and natural experiences, Vanuatu is a top choice.
• Seniors (65+ years): Not recommended. The travel is physically demanding, and the infrastructure is very basic, making it an extremely challenging destination.

Accessibility Level: Low

• Vanuatu is an adventurous destination with very limited accessibility.
• The terrain is rugged, and travel often involves small planes, boats, and 4x4 vehicles on unpaved roads.
• There is no accessible public transport.
• Accessible accommodation is extremely rare and likely only found in a few resorts in Port Vila.